The success of the 5th grade boys mentoring program at Pottorf Elementary has shown how powerful mentorship can be for young students. Through the Pottorf Boys2Men program, male volunteers from HPGCC meet with selected 5th grade boys in small groups from December through April, helping them build confidence, develop life skills, and form positive relationships with adult role models.
Inspired by this impactful program, the administration at Pottorf wants to explore the creation of a similar mentoring opportunity for 5th grade girls. The goal is to provide encouragement, guidance, and meaningful experiences for girls as they prepare for middle school and beyond. Pottorf is currently looking for two or three female volunteers who would be willing to lead the organizational effort. If you have a heart for supporting young girls and helping them grow into confident young women, they would love to hear from you. Your involvement could make a lasting difference in a girl’s life.
If you are interested in helping start this new program, please contact Lou Bottitta for more about how the boys’ program can be a model for getting started. The guidance counselor at Pottorf would also be an important school resource for establishing and maintaining a girls’ program.
Other resources include:
Girls Inc. (see the “Get Involved” video)
Girl Talk Inc. (“Creating a Sisterhood of Self-Worth”)
MyGirlTalk – (excellent video on challenges facing girls today)
These national programs also focus on building self-esteem and encouraging individuality through weekly meetings and field trips. Other elements are:
• Healthy friendship
• Positive role models
• Field trips
• Reflection activities and discussions
• Leadership and service
